Kidney
Handbook
Your
Kidney
Transplant
A basic overview of your daily
healthcare, medications, and monitoring
I T N S
Supported by an educational grant from Fujisawa Healthcare, Inc. Copyright 2002
Kidney Handbook
Table Of
Contents
Clinic Visits..................................................23
Lab Tests ......................................................24
Additional Tests and Procedures..................25
INTRODUCTION........................................3
CONGRATULATIONS ON
YOUR KIDNEY TRANSPLANT ..............4
Purpose of the Handbook ..............................4
Your Transplant Coordinator ........................4
RESUMING NORMALACTIVITIES ........26
Avoiding Infection ......................................26
Food Safety ..................................................26
Diet and Nutrition ........................................27
Caring for Your Bones ................................28
Exercise........................................................28
Returning to Work or School ......................29
Sexual Activity ............................................29
Skin and Hair Care ......................................29
Alcoholic Beverages ....................................30
Smoking ......................................................30
Pregnancy ....................................................30
Vacations and Travel....................................30
INFORMATION ABOUT
YOUR KIDNEYS ........................................5
What the Kidneys do ....................................5
COMPLICATIONS ....................................6
Infections........................................................6
Rejection ........................................................7
Delayed Graft Function ................................8
Diabetes..........................................................8
High Blood Pressure ......................................9
Anxiety and Depression ................................9
COMMUNICATION WITH
YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM................31
Signs to Watch for........................................31
Dental Care ..................................................31
Routine Healthcare ......................................31
INFORMATION ABOUT
MEDICATIONS ........................................10
General Guidelines for
Storing Your Medications ............................10
Before You Take Your Medications ............11
Notify Your Transplant Team If You ..........11
Information about Specific
Medications ..................................................11
Anti-rejection Medications ..........................11
Infection-Fighting Drugs ............................18
Antifungal Drugs ........................................20
Drugs That Protect Your
Digestive System ........................................21
Antacids/Antiulcer Medications ..................21
Over the Counter Medications ....................21
Nutritional Supplements ..............................22
Caution: Herbal Products or Teas ................22
Blood Sugar Monitoring and Insulin ..........22
GLOSSARY................................................32
SOURCES OF MORE
INFORMATION ........................................36
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ......................36
USEFUL FORMS ......................................37
Phone Directory of Your Healthcare Team............37
Other Members of Your Healthcare Team ............37
Medication Instruction Sheet ......................38
Notes on Additional Medications ................38
Follow-up Appointment Schedule ..............39
Vital Signs Record ......................................40
Record of Lab Values ..................................41
Questions for Your Transplant Team ..........42
Your Notes and Comments ..........................42
HEALTHCARE AFTER YOU
LEAVE THE HOSPITAL ........................23
Watching Out for Your Health
and Your New Kidney at Home ..................23
Pancreas-Kidney Transplant
Table of Contents ........................................43
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Kidney Handbook
Introduction
We are pleased that you are using this
educational material to learn about your
transplant. We want you to know that this
booklet is intended for use of transplanted
people around the world. You will see
throughout the teaching material that certain
words are used for position titles and
procedures. This table will let you know
internationally, what you can refer to and
what we have chosen to call positions
within the health care team. If you have any
questions, ask your transplant team.
follow your care while you are in the
hospital. Your transplant coordinator will
also follow you as an outpatient in the
clinical setting.
Donor Coordinator = Organ
Procurement Organization (OPO)
Transplant staff who are responsible for the
retrieval, preservation, placement and
transportation of organs for transplantation.
Nurse Practitioner = Transplant Sister
These members of the transplant team are
specially trained nurses who are able to do
more than a transplant nurse; they may see
you pre-transplant, at the time of your
transplant and post operatively in the clinic.
Transplant Nurse = Staff Nurse
Transplant nurses will care for you while
you are in the hospital. They will help you
to get up and around and to learn about
your new transplant. These nurses will help
you with discharge plans and teach you to
care for yourself at home.
Recipient Coordinators = Clinical
Coordinators = Transplant Sister
These coordinators manage your assessment
and evaluation for transplant and will
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Kidney Handbook
Congratulations
On Your Kidney
Transplant!
Now that you have received a new kidney
and are about to go home, it is important to
understand that having a new kidney brings
new responsibilities.
expected to ask your transplant team lots of
questions and seek detailed guidance on
your particular routine.
Your transplant team will continue your
kidney care. At this point, though, the most
important member of the team is YOU!
Without your active support, the team's best
efforts cannot succeed. As the lifetime caretaker of your new kidney, you will need to:
•
•
•
•
•
• Make sure you have healthy daily habits
that include a good diet and regular exercise
• Follow your medication schedule
• Check your weight, temperature, blood
pressure, and pulse periodically
• Talk to your transplant team regularly
• Keep to your schedule for lab tests and
checkups
• Make sure all of your doctors, your
dentist and your pharmacist know about
your medications and your care.
You may want to use this handbook for:
Recording lab results
Keeping track of medications, dosage
changes, etc
Making notes about special instructions
Writing down questions you may want
to ask
Reviewing general health guidelines and
precautions
YOUR TRANSPLANT COORDINATOR
Once you leave the hospital, your transplant
coordinator will be your main contact with
your transplant team. The coordinator, a
registered nurse, will teach you how to care
for your general health and will answer
most of your questions. Your transplant
coordinator is involved in most aspects of
your care and will put you in touch with
other team members who can provide any
other services you may need.
PURPOSE OF THE HANDBOOK
This handbook will give you a basic
overview of your daily healthcare routine,
medications, monitoring, and other
activities. It also has tips on recognizing
problems that may necessitate immediate
medical attention. Every patient has individual
needs that should be dealt with. You will be
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Kidney Handbook
Information About
Your Kidneys
Let's first review some facts about the kidneys.
Kidney Failure
The kidneys usually fail because of a
disease that has affected their function. The
most common of these diseases includes
diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure,
glomerulonephritis, and polycystic kidney
disease. Injury and birth defects are other
causes of kidney failure. The disease
generally has been attacking the kidneys for
many years before a person begins to feel
the effects of kidney failure. There are also
conditions that can cause sudden loss of
kidney function. When the kidneys stop
working, waste products and excess fluids
build up and become harmful to your body.
You may begin to feel tired and fatigued.
You may develop edema (puffiness) in your
ankles and face. You may develop nausea
and have a poor appetite.
WHAT THE KIDNEYS DO
Your kidneys are located at the back of your
stomach area (abdomen), one on each side
of the spinal cord. The lower ribs protect
the kidneys from injury. Each kidney is
about the size of your fist.
The kidneys' major jobs are to:
• Filter waste products and excess water out
of the blood
• Make hormones that help regulate blood
pressure and the production of red
blood cells
• Control the balance of water, salt, and
acid in the body
Benefits of Kidney Transplantation
A kidney transplant is not a cure; it is a
treatment option. A successful kidney
transplant may prevent you from ever needing
dialysis. If you have started dialysis, a
transplant should allow you to stop. Your
energy level should improve as your new
kidney will promote the production of red
blood cells. You will have fewer restrictions
with your diet and with your fluid intake.
You will hopefully be able to return to a
more normal lifestyle with increased activity
and independence.
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Kidney Handbook
Complications
A number of complications are possible
after surgery. Your transplant team will do
their best to reduce your chance of having
complications and to treat any problems or
difficulties right away. Following instructions
carefully and keeping your transplant team
informed of any problems will help you
return quickly to your normal, active life.
for herpes, it can be treated. Depending on
the severity of the infection, the treatment is
either by mouth, on the skin, or intravenous.
Contact your transplant team right away if
you think you have herpes.
Symptoms of herpes include feeling weak
and having painful, fluid-filled sores in your
mouth or genital area. Report any pain with
swallowing. Women should also watch for
any unusual vaginal discharge.
INFECTIONS
Anti-rejection medications interfere with
your natural immunity; therefore, you will
be more likely to get infections after your
transplant surgery. The following are some
of the most common infections
Precautions:
• Keep the sore areas as clean and dry as
possible.
• Wash your hands with soap and water
after touching the sore.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid
irritating the sores and spreading the virus.
• Avoid kissing or having oral sex with
someone who has a cold sore.
• Avoid having intercourse with someone
who has genital lesions.
.
Herpes zoster (shingles) - Shingles appears
as a rash or small water blisters, usually on
the chest, back or hip. The rash may or may
not be painful and may occur in people who
have had chicken pox. Call your transplant
team immediately if you have this kind of a rash.
Viral Infections:
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) - CMV is one of
the viral infections that occur most often in
transplant patients. The risk of CMV is
highest in the first months after transplantation.
Signs can include fatigue, fever, night
sweats, aching joints, headaches, trouble
seeing, and pneumonia. Treatment may
include hospitalization, and you may have
to take medicine intravenously or by mouth
for several weeks or months.
Herpes-simplex virus type 1 and 2 - These
viruses most often infect the skin but can
also turn up in other areas like the eyes and
lungs. Type 1 causes cold sores and blisters
around the mouth, and type 2 causes genital
sores. Herpes is an infectious disease and
can be transmitted sexually. Herpes infections
in transplant patients, however, are not
necessarily transmitted sexually.
Varicella zoster (chicken pox) - Chicken
pox may appear as a rash or small blisters
and usually occurs in childhood, giving
immunity to further infection. Call your
transplant team immediately if you have
been exposed and have not had chicken pox
previously - do not wait to see if you are
going to get sick.
Most herpes simplex infections are mild,
but can be severe. Although there is no cure
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COMPLICATIONS
Kidney Handbook
Fungal Infections:
Candida (yeast) - Candida is a fungus that
can cause a variety of infections in transplant
patients. It usually starts in the mouth and
throat but may also be in the surgical
wound, eyes or respiratory and urinary
tracts. Candida is most severe in the bloodstream. If there is infection in the mouth or
throat, it is called thrush. Thrush causes
white, patchy lesions (raw areas), pain
tenderness, a white film on the tongue, and
difficulty swallowing. Candida can also
infect the tube from the mouth to the
stomach (esophagus) or, in women, the
vagina. Vaginal infections usually cause an
abnormal discharge that may be yellow or
white and often itchy. Call your transplant
team if you think you have a yeast infection.
Treatment of severe fungal infections may
include hospitalization where you may
receive an IV medication.
If you have been on peritoneal dialysis,
your catheter may be left in place for several
months after transplantation. It is important
to continue to take regular care of your
peritoneal catheter exit site to prevent infection.
REJECTION
Your body's immune system protects you
from infection by recognizing certain
foreign bodies, like bacteria and viruses,
and destroying them. Unfortunately, the
immune system sees your new kidney as a
foreign substance also.
Rejection is an attempt by your immune
system to attack the transplanted kidney and
destroy it. To prevent rejection, you must
take anti-rejection medications, as prescribed,
for the rest of your kidney's life.
In spite of all precautions, rejection can
occur. Up to half of all kidney-transplant
patients will have at least one rejection
episode. The first episode often happens
within the first 6 months of surgery.
Bacterial Infections:
Wound Infections - Bacterial wound
infections happen at the surgical site. If you
have a fever or notice redness, swelling,
tenderness, or oozing at your incision, call
your transplant team. After a test for bacteria
is taken, you will be given an antibiotic if
you have an infection.
Rejection episodes are treated by changing
the dosages of your anti-rejection medications
or adding a new one temporarily. Kidney
rejection does not necessarily mean kidney
failure. Most episodes of rejection can be
reversed with anti-rejection medications, if
they are detected early enough.
Other Infections:
Pneumocystis carinii is a germ that is a lot
like a fungus, and it is normally found in
the lung. In people whose immune systems
are suppressed, it may cause a type of
pneumonia. Early in the illness, you might
have mild, dry cough and a fever. If you
think that you have a cold or flu-like illness
that does not get better, contact your
transplant team right away. Some transplant
programs provide treatment to prevent this
infection.
You should look for the signs of rejection
and call your transplant team promptly if
you have the following:
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•
•
7
Pain or tenderness over your kidney transplant
Fatigue/weakness
Fever
Less urine output than usual
Swelling of your hands or feet
Kidney Handbook
COMPLICATIONS
DIABETES
• Sudden weight gain
• Elevated blood pressure
Glucose is a simple sugar and is the main
source of energy in the body's cells.
You may not have any symptoms, but your
kidney-function test may be abnormal,
suggesting that rejection is happening. This
is why getting lab tests done as scheduled is
critical.
A condition called diabetes mellitus occurs
if glucose accumulates because your body
is not using it properly and/or not enough
insulin is produced.
When your transplant team thinks you are
having a rejection, they usually confirm it
with a kidney biopsy. Based on the results,
your transplant team will decide the best
treatment for you.
Some of your prescribed anti-rejection medicines
may cause diabetes. The onset of diabetes
post-transplant is usually mild; early signs
include tiredness, thirst, weight loss, excessive
production of urine, blurred vision and
confusion. If you have any of these symptoms
you should inform your transplant team,
however you will be routinely monitored in
clinic for this condition by regular blood
and/or urine tests.
DELAYED GRAFT FUNCTION
The functioning of your kidney transplant
may be delayed, causing a need for dialysis
until the kidney "wakes up". Delayed function
may last from several days to several weeks.
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Kidney Handbook
COMPLICATIONS
Post-transplant diabetes is often resolved by
reducing some of your anti-rejection medicines
or converting you to different ones, though
you may need a specific oral diabetic medicine
or insulin injections. Should you develop
diabetes your transplant team will give you
specific advice, however careful diet,
weight loss and exercise are all helpful in
controlling this condition.
to increase your urine output and thus
help lower your blood pressure.
• Blood pressure medicines - There are
many different types of blood pressure
medicine including vasodilators,
beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers;
your doctor will choose the most
appropriate one for you. Many patients
will need a combination of more than one
blood pressure medicine.
• If your doctor suspects you have a
rejection episode or renal artery stenosis,
the appropriate diagnostic tests will be
performed and treatment initiated.
• If your high blood pressure is caused by a
side effect of your anti-rejection therapy,
changes may be made to a different type
of medicine.
If you were diabetic prior to your transplant,
you may have problems with blood sugar
control following your surgery. This will be
discussed with you on an individual basis.
BLOOD PRESSURE
High blood pressure is a very common
complication following kidney transplantation,
particularly during the early months. This is
why your blood pressure will be checked
more frequently during this period.
It is important that you do not stop or
change your prescribed medicines
without discussion with your transplant
doctors.
It is vital to control high blood pressure; if
left untreated you would be at an increased
risk of heart disease or of having a stroke.
Often high blood pressure does not produce
symptoms, however some patients complain
of headaches or blurred vision.
ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION
A serious operation such as the one you
have had can put a lot of stress on you and
your family. It is common for transplant
patients to have anxiety and perhaps
depression after their surgery, during their
stay in the hospital, and/or upon return
home. There are counseling services to help
you adjust to life at home and to your return
to work or school. Ask your transplant team
for information about these services.
It can be associated with several problems,
which include fluid overload, rejection and
renal artery stenosis. It can also be a side
effect of some of your medicines.
There are many different ways of treating
high blood pressure:
• If your doctor thinks you are fluid
overloaded you will be given a diuretic
(water pill) which will drive your kidney
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Kidney Handbook
Information About
Medications
You are responsible for taking the medications
that have been prescribed for you. Talk to
your doctor, pharmacist, transplant nurse,
and/or coordinator so you understand:
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR STORING
YOUR MEDICATIONS
1. Keep medications in the original container,
tightly capped. If you use a special
container to hold your pills, keep the
container tightly sealed.
2. Store in a cool, dry place away from
direct sunlight.
3. Do not store medications in the bathroom moisture and heat can cause them to lose
their strength.
4. Do not allow liquid medications to freeze
5. Do not store medications in the refrigerator
unless your pharmacist advises you to do so.
6. Keep all medications away from children.
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The name and purpose of each medication
When to take each medication
How to take each medication
How long to continue taking each medication
Main side effects of each medication
What to do if you forget to take a dose
When to order more medication so you do
not run out
• How to get your medication
• What you should avoid (such as drinking
alcohol or driving) while you are taking
medication
When you return home, you will continue
taking most of the medicines you began
taking in the hospital after your surgery.
Your immune system recognizes your new
kidney as foreign and will try to reject it.
Therefore, your immune system must be
controlled with anti-rejection medications.
You probably will have to take one or more
of these drugs for the rest of your
transplanted kidney's life, in addition to
other medications.
REMINDER: Never stop taking your
medications or change the dosage without
your transplant team's approval. There is
always a risk of rejection and loss of the
new kidney.
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Kidney Handbook
INFORMATION ABOUT MEDICATIONS
BEFORE YOU TAKE YOUR
MEDICATIONS
1. Ask your nurse, transplant coordinator, or
pharmacist to help you choose the best
times to take your medications.
2. Try to take each medication at the same
time every day.
3. Follow a written schedule.
4. DO NOT cut or crush a tablet unless
your are advised to do so.
Information
About
Specific
Medications
This section is a general guide to each
medication's function, proper use, dosage,
precautions, and side effects. The information
does not cover everything about each
medication and does not replace your
doctor's advice. Always follow the instructions
given to you by your transplant team. Not
all of the medications talked about in this
handbook will be prescribed by your
transplant doctor.
NOTIFY YOUR TRANSPLANT TEAM
IF YOU....
• Cannot take your medicines by mouth
because of illness
• Have vomiting, diarrhea, or nausea for 24
hours or more)
• Think the directions on the label may be
different from what you were told
• Have trouble removing child-resistant
caps - contact your pharmacist first
• Have a reason to take aspirin, Advil®,
Nurofen® (ibuprofen), other pain relievers,
cold remedies, or diet pills
• Feel you are having a reaction to your
medications
• Have had a change in health or eating
habits
• Have a new prescription from your local
doctor or a change in a current prescription
• Experience any unusual symptoms or side
effects, since they may be related to the
medication you are taking
You probably will not experience all of the
side effects listed for each medication, and
can be reassured that side effects usually
decrease with time.
ANTI-REJECTION MEDICATIONS
Tacrolimus (Progaf®, FK506)
Purpose:
Tacrolimus is used to prevent or treat rejection
in people who have received kidney
transplants. You may have to take it for the
rest of your kidney's life.
How to take:
• Capsules -.5mg, (milligram) 1mg and 5 mg.
If you take tacrolimus twice daily, doses
should be 12 hours apart. Either oral or
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INFORMATION ABOUT SPECIFIC
MEDICATIONS
Kidney Handbook
intravenous tacrolimus may be given to you
immediately after your transplant.
• Your transplant team will determine the
right dosage for you based on your
weight, your blood levels, other lab tests,
and the possible side effects of tacrolimus.
• Tacrolimus should be taken regularly to
keep drug levels steady. Do not take with
grapefruit juice.
• Tacrolimus is usually taken with:
• Corticosteroids, such as prednisone
(Deltasone®), prednisolone
• Azathioprine (Imuran®) or mycopheno
late mofetil(CellCept®)
Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to
headaches, high blood pressure, nausea,
diarrhea, high blood sugar, tremors, hair
loss, trouble sleeping, infection, numbness
and tingling of your hands or feet, elevated
potassium level in your blood and abnormal
kidney function.
Switching drugs:
Your transplant team may decide to give
you tacrolimus instead of cyclosporine
(Sandimmune®, Neoral®), because of side
effects or rejection. If this happens, follow
the instructions of your transplant team.
Precautions:
• You will have frequent lab tests during the
first few months to keep watch on the
effectiveness and side effects of tacrolimus.
• On a day when your tacrolimus level is to
be measured, do not take your morning
dose until your blood has been drawn.
After your blood is drawn, take your
prescribed dosage.
• Store tacrolimus at room temperature (59°
to 86°F) (15° to 30°C) and away from
children.
• Tacrolimus may interact with some
commonly used drugs including those
purchased over the counter. Check with
your transplant team before starting any
new medications or taking any herbal
medications.
• The benefits of taking this medication if
you are pregnant or breastfeeding must be
weighed against the possible danger to
you, your unborn baby, or your infant.
Call your transplant team immediately if
you think you are pregnant.
NOTES:
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RAPAMYCIN
(SIROLIMUS, RAPAMUNE®)
Purpose:
Rapamycin is a potent immune suppressant
used to prevent rejection of kidney and
pancreas transplant.
How to take:
It is given as a liquid mixed in orange juice
or water and also available in capsules. If
you are taking the liquid, it should be stored
in a refrigerator. The daily dose should be
given consistently with meals, either always
with a meal or always on an empty stomach
so that the medication will be consistently
absorbed. Once a pouch or bottle of the
medication is opened, it should be used
within one month.
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INFORMATION ABOUT SPECIFIC
MEDICATIONS
Kidney Handbook
Precautions:
• High cholesterol and high triglyceride
levels may be seen.
• Rapamycin therapy can cause a temporary
decrease in certain blood cells that help
platelets. This may result in unusual
bleeding or bruising.
• Rapamycin can also cause a decrease in
white blood cells, which can affect your
ability to fight infection. Your transplant
team will be monitoring your blood
counts and adjusting medication doses as
needed.
• Other potential side effects include
headache, diarrhea, occasional joint pain
and edema.
should be 12 hours apart. You may be
given intravenous cyclosporine for the
first few days after your transplant.
• Liquid - 100mg per ml (milliliter). Mix
it with a room-temperature liquid in a
glass or hard plastic container and stir it
with a metal spoon. Ask your transplant
team for suggested liquids to mix the
medication with. Do not use a plastic
foam container.
• Your transplant team will determine your
dosage based on your weight, your blood
levels, other laboratory tests, the possible
side effects of cyclosporine and other
medications you are taking.
Precautions:
• You will have frequent lab tests during the
first few months to keep watch on the
effectiveness and side effects of
cyclosporine.
• On a day when your cyclosporine level is
to be measured, do not take your morning
dose until after your blood has been drawn.
• Store cyclosporine capsules below 77°F
or 25°C, store liquid below 86°F or 30°C.
Do not leave cyclosporine in your car or
store it in a refrigerator or bathroom
medicine cabinet or exposed to direct
light. Good places to store this drug
include the kitchen or your bedroom away from heat, cold, moisture, and
children.
• An open bottle of liquid cyclosporine is
good for 2 months. You should not
remove a capsule from a wrapper until
you are about to use it.
• Cyclosporine interacts with many
commonly used drugs including those
Cyclosporine (Sandimmune®, Neoral®,
Gengraf®, Eon®
NOTE: Sandimmune®, Neoral®, Gengraf®
and Eon® should not be substituted for one
another except under the direction of your
transplant team.
Switching drugs:
Your transplant team may decide to give
you cyclosporine instead of tacrolimus
(Prograf®), or the other way around,
because of side effects or rejection. If this
happens, follow the instructions of your
transplant team.
Purpose:
Cyclosporine is used to prevent rejection of
a transplanted kidney. You may have to take
it for the rest of your life.
How to take:
• Capsules - 10mg, 25mg, 50mg and 100mg.
If you take cyclosporine twice daily, doses
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INFORMATION ABOUT SPECIFIC
MEDICATIONS
Kidney Handbook
purchased over the counter. Check with
your transplant team before starting any
new medications or any herbal remedies.
• The benefits of taking this medication if
you are pregnant or breastfeeding must be
weighed against the possible danger to
you, your unborn baby, or your infant.
Call your transplant team immediately if
you think you are pregnant.
• May be taken with food if causes stomach
upset or discomfort.
Precautions:
• Mycophenolate mofetil may lower some
of your blood cell counts such as white
blood cells, which fight infection and
platelets, which help blood clot. You
should report any unusual bruising or
bleeding to your transplant team.
• Mycophenolate mofetil should not be use
by pregnant women unless the possible
benefits justifies the possible danger to
the unborn baby. Women of childbearing
age should use effective contraception
before beginning CellCept ®, during the
time you are taking CellCept®, and for 6
weeks after you have stopped taking
CellCept®. Call your transplant team
immediately if you think you are pregnant.
Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to,
headaches, tremor, abnormal kidney function,
high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high
cholesterol, infection, elevated potassium
level in your blood, excessive hair growth,
trouble sleeping, swelling or overgrowth of
the gums.
NOTES
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Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to,
heartburn, stomach discomfort, infection,
nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These side
effects may decrease with dose reduction,
as directed by your transplant team.
Mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept®, MMF)
Purpose:
Mycophenolate mofetil is given to you with
other medications to help prevent or treat
rejection of your new kidney. You may have
to take it for the rest of your life.
NOTES
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___________________________________
___________________________________
How to take:
• Capsules - 250 mg, 500 mg. If you take
mycophenolate twice daily, doses should
be 12 hours apart.
• Your transplant team will decide the right
dosage for you based on your laboratory
values and kidney function.
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INFORMATION ABOUT SPECIFIC
MEDICATIONS
Kidney Handbook
Prednisone (Deltasone®) - prednisolone,
a related drug
Purpose:
Prednisone helps prevent and treat rejection
of transplanted kidneys. You may have to
take it for the rest of your kidney's life.
NOTES
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___________________________________
___________________________________
Azathioprine (Imuran®)
Purpose:
Azathioprine may be given to you with
other drugs to help prevent rejection of your
new kidney. You may have to take it for the
rest of your kidney's life.
How to take:
• Tablets come in several different
strengths; your transplant team will decide
the best tablet strength; liquid - 1 mg per
ml; injectable forms are also available.
• It is best to take prednisone with food.
• If you take prednisone once a day, you
should take it in the morning - ask your
transplant team for specific directions.
Your transplant team will determine the
right dosage for you according to your
weight, how well your transplant is
functioning, and the length of time since
your transplant.
• Missing doses may cause serious side
effects.
How to take:
• Tablets - 50 mg; liquid - 10 mg per ml.
Intravenous azathioprine may be given
to you for the first few days after
transplantation.
• Your transplant team will determine the
right dosage for you based on your weight
and white blood cell count.
Precautions:
• Azathioprine may lower some of your
blood cell counts such as your white
blood cells, which fight infection, and
your platelets, which help your blood clot.
You should report any unusual bruising or
bleeding to your transplant team.
• Imuran may interact with some medications.
Check with your transplant team before
starting any new medications or herbal
remedies. Check with your transplant team
before taking any anti-gout medications.
• The benefits of taking this medication if
you are pregnant or breastfeeding must be
weighed against the possible danger to
you, your unborn baby, or your infant.
Call your transplant team immediately if
you think you are pregnant.
Precautions:
• The benefits of taking this medication if
you are pregnant or breastfeeding must be
weighed against the possible danger to
you, your unborn baby, or your infant.
Call your transplant team immediately if
you think you are pregnant.
Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to, high
blood sugar, increased appetite, weight gain,
osteoporosis, high cholesterol, mood
swings, anxiety, stomach ulcers and slow
growth in children.
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Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to, nausea,
vomiting and infection. Report any rashes,
yellowing of your skin or whites of your
eyes.
weighed against the possible danger to
you, your unborn baby, or your infant.
Inform your transplant team immediately
if you think you are pregnant.
Main side effects:
Report any side effects to your nurse as
soon as possible. These include, but are not
limited to, difficulty breathing, fever, chills,
rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle
aches, infection and pain during infusion.
Your platelet and blood cell levels may
lower.
NOTES
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
Antithymocyte globulin (Atgam®,
Thymoglobulin®, ATG)
Purpose:
Antithymocyte globulin may be given to
you right after your kidney transplant to
prevent rejection. It may also be used later
to treat rejection.
NOTES
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
How to take:
• This medication is given only intravenously.
It takes 4 to 6 hours to administer.
• To reduce side effects, you may receive
Tylenol® and/or Benadryl® or
Hydrocortisone or Piriton before you are
given antithymocyte globulin.
• Your transplant team will decide the right
dosage based on your weight, how your
transplant is functioning, your white
blood cell count, and the possible side
effects of antithymocyte globulin.
OKT3 (Orthoclone OKT®3,
Muromonab-CD3)
Purpose:
OKT3 may be given to you right after your
kidney transplant to prevent rejection. It
may also be used later on to treat rejection.
How to take:
• This medication is given only intravenously.
It is generally given once a day for 5 to
14 days. It will be given over a few minutes.
• To reduce side effects, you may receive
Tylenol® and/or Benadryl® before you
are given OKT3.
• Your transplant team will decide the right
dosage for you based on your weight,
how your transplant is functioning, your
white blood cell count, your platelet
count, and the possible side effects of OKT3.
Precautions:
• Your transplant team may change the
dosages of your other medications while
you are taking antithymocyte globulin.
• The benefits of taking this medication if
you are pregnant or breastfeeding must be
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Precautions:
• Notify your transplant team at the first
sign of wheezing, difficulty breathing,
rapid heartbeat, difficulty swallowing,
rash or itching. Most patients have some
mild adverse during reactions to OKT3
with the first three doses.
• Your transplant team may change the
dosages of your other medications while
you are taking OKT3.
• The benefits of taking OKT3 if you are
pregnant or breastfeeding must be
weighed against the possible danger to
you, your unborn baby, or your infant.
Call your transplant team immediately if
you think you are pregnant.
How to take:
It is available only in injection form and is
given intravenously at the time of transplant.
It is then given up to four more times at 2
week intervals. It is usually given in
combination with cyclosporine and
prednisone. When you are discharged from
the hospital, you will be given instructions
on where to receive additional doses. The
most common side effect of this drug is
nausea but generally this drug is very well
tolerated.
Precautions:
Since it is unknown if daclizumab is safe in
pregnancy, women of child-bearing age
should use effective birth control before,
during, and for four months after completion
of therapy.
Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to,
wheezing, difficulty breathing, chest pain,
fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
tremor, headache, infection, fast heart rate,
and muscle stiffness. The most uncomfortable
side effects generally happen only during
the first few doses or in the first 1 to 4 days.
You may be able to finish this therapy without
staying in the hospital.
BASILIXIMAB ( SIMULECT)
Purpose:
Basiliximab is a medication that suppresses
the immune system and prevents rejection.
It is usually used along with cyclosporine
and prednisone.
NOTES
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
How to take:
This medication is given intravenously at
the time of transplant and once again four
days later. The most common side effect is
nausea and some of the other same side
effects of cyclosporine and prednisone.
Precautions:
As with the other anti-rejection medications,
notify your transplant team of any signs of
infection. It is not known if there are long
term side effects on your body's response to
bacteria, fungi, or viruses.
DACLIZUMAB ( ZENAPAX)
Purpose:
Daclizumab is a medication that suppresses
the immune system and prevents acute
rejection.
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Since it is unknown if basiliximab is safe in
pregnancy, women of childbearing age
should use effective birth control before,
during, and for two months after completion
of therapy.
• Your transplant team will decide the right
dosage and length of time for you to take
TMP/SMX.
• Take plenty of fluids with this medication check with your transplant team about the
amount.
INFECTION-FIGHTING DRUGS
Precautions:
• Do not take TMP/SMX if you are allergic
to sulfa. In that case, your transplant team
may give you another drug.
• The benefits of taking TMP/SMX if you
are pregnant or breastfeeding must be
weighed against the possible danger to
you, your unborn baby, or your infant.
Call your transplant team immediately if
you think you are pregnant.
The medications you take to stop your body
from rejecting your new kidney also reduce
the normal ability of your body to fight bacteria,
viruses, and other germs. As a result, you
are at an increased risk of getting an infection.
Your doctor may prescribe one or more
drugs to protect you from infection or to
control infection.
The following are some of the most
commonly used antibiotics (antibacterial
drugs), antiviral drugs, and antifungal
medications.
Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to, nausea,
rash, itching, and increase risk of sunburn.
Valganciclovir (Valcyte)
Purpose:
Valganciclovir may be given to help prevent
or treat infections that are caused by a virus
called Cytomegalovirus (CMV). The CMV
virus is present in about 50% of the population.
This virus is generally experienced in the
form of a common cold or flu and most people
are unaware that they have had this virus.
Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole or
TMP/SMX (Bactrim®, Septra®,
Co-trimoxazole, Cotrim® - also available
under other names)
Purpose:
TMP/SMX is used to prevent and/or treat
pneumocystis carinii pneumonia and other
infections. Transplant patients have more
risk of getting this type of pneumonia
because of the drugs taken to avoid rejection,
which reduce their body's ability to fight
infection.
However, when a donor kidney with CMV
is transplanted into a recipient who has not
had CMV, the recipient is at risk for becoming
infected with the CMV virus. If you acquire
the CMV virus after your transplant, you
are at risk for infection because you are taking
anti-rejection medication.
How to take:
• This medication is taken by mouth and is
available in pill or liquid form.
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By taking Valganciclovir, you are protecting
yourself against the CMV virus and thus
protecting yourself from infection.
Ganciclovir (Cytovene®)
Purpose:
Ganciclovir is used to prevent or treat
CMV, a viral infection.
How to take:
• It is given orally in 450 mg tablets. It is
generally given once daily in the morning.
• Take this medicine with food.
• Swallow whole - Do not break, crush, or
chew the tablet before swallowing.
• Your transplant team will advise you on
how long to take this medication, generally
3-6 months.
How to take:
• Ganciclovir is given intravenously or orally.
The first few doses are generally given in
the hospital.
• Your transplant team will decide the right
dosage and length of time you should take
ganciclovir.
• Take plenty of fluids with this medication check with your transplant team about the
amount - and take with food to reduce
stomach upset.
Precautions:
This medication may reduce your number
of platelets; platelets are the blood cells,
which are necessary for clotting. This
medication can also reduce the number of
white blood cells and the number of red
blood cells. Your transplant team will be
monitoring your blood counts to make sure
you are not having potential side effects.
Precautions:
• Ganciclovir may lead to more risk of
infection
• The benefits of taking ganciclovir if you
are pregnant or breastfeeding must be
weighed against the possible danger to
you, your unborn baby, or your infant.
Call your transplant team immediately if
you think you are pregnant.
Valganciclovir has caused birth defects in
animals and may impair fertility. Since it
may cause birth defects, both women and
men of childbearing age should use effective
birth control during and for 90 days following
the use of Valcyte. If you suspect you are
pregnant, contact your transplant team
immediately.
Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to, nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea and lowering of your
white blood cell count.
Acyclovir (Zovirax®)
Purpose:
Acyclovir is used to prevent or treat herpes
simplex and shingles. Acyclovir will not get
rid of the herpes virus, but it will lessen the
pain and help heal the sores. Acyclovir is
Main side effects:
Side effects that may occur, but are not limited
to, while taking this medication are: dizziness,
nausea, diarrhea, and decrease red blood
cell counts, platelets, and white blood cell's.
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Kidney Handbook
also used to prevent and decrease the severity
of CMV infection.
Purpose:
Various drugs are used to treat or prevent
fungus infections. Nystatin (Mycostatin®)
and clotrimazole (Lotrimin®, Lotrisone®,
Mycelex® and Amphotericin) are the most
commonly used. Antifungal drugs interact
with most anti-rejection medications, so an
adjustment will be made in your medications
when you start and stop taking the antifungal
drugs.
How to take:
• Capsules - 200 mg; tablets - 400 mg and
800 mg; liquid - 200 mg per 5 ml; and
ointment. If you are taking acyclovir by
mouth, you should take it with food and
plenty of water to reduce stomach upset.
• Your transplant team will decide the right
dosage and length of time you should take
acyclovir.
How to take:
• Liquid - swish and swallow
• Troche or lozenge - dissolve in your
mouth. Do not chew.
• The liquid or the lozenge should be taken
after meals and other medications to allow
liquids and lozenges to work in your
mouth. Do not drink anything for at least
30 minutes.
• Vaginal suppository or cream - used as
directed
• Severe fungal infections may require the
use of intravenous antifungal drugs.
• Your transplant team will decide the right
dosage and length of time for you to take
antifungal medications.
Precautions:
• Acyclovir will not prevent you from
spreading herpes to others. It is best not to
have sex if either partner has any symptoms
of genital herpes. Condoms may help prevent
the spread of genital herpes, but vaginal
jellies and diaphragms will not.
• The benefits of taking acyclovir if you are
pregnant or breastfeeding must be
weighed against the possible danger to
you, your unborn baby, or your infant.
Call your transplant team immediately if
you think you are pregnant.
Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to, nausea,
vomiting and lowering of your white blood
cell count.
Precautions:
The benefits of taking these medications if
you are pregnant or breastfeeding must be
weighed against the possible danger to you,
your unborn baby, or your infant. Call your
transplant team immediately if you think
you are pregnant.
ANTIFUNGAL DRUGS
The lowered ability of your body to fight
infection puts you at more risk of getting a
serious fungus infection. This may take the
form of thrush, or, in women, vaginal yeast
infections.
Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea and unpleasant taste.
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INFORMATION ABOUT SPECIFIC
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Kidney Handbook
DRUGS THAT PROTECT YOUR
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
Because some medications you take can
cause stomach ulcers, you may need to take
other medication to help protect your digestive
system. These drugs will be prescribed by
your transplant team when necessary.
OVER THE COUNTER MEDICATIONS
The following is a list of common
complaints and recommended over the
counter medications that you can take for
these problems. Please check this list
before taking any over the counter medication.
The addition of any other medications or
change in your current medications must be
made through your transplant center.
ANTACIDS/ANTIULCER MEDICATIONS
Ranitidine (Zantac®), famotidine
(Pepcid®), omeprazole (Prilosec®, and
sucralfate (Carafate®) are medications used
to prevent and sometimes treat stomach
ulcers.
Constipation - Metamucil, Fiber-Con,
Senekot, Colace are medications that you
may take. Increase fluids in your diet,
increase fiber in your diet (bran, fresh fruits
and vegetables). If constipation remains a
problem, be sure to report to your transplant
center.
How to take:
• It is important to follow instructions about
meals and other medications when taking
any of these drugs.
• Your transplant team will decide the right
medication, dosage, and length of treatment
time for you.
Diarrhea - Imodium, Kaeopectate,
Donnagel are medication that you may take.
Increase fluids to prevent dehydration until
diarrhea goes away. If diarrhea persists for
more than 2 days, please notify your
transplant center.
Precautions:
• Do not take these drugs with other
medications unless your transplant team
has told you to do so.
• Do not make changes to dosage on your
own.
• Call your transplant team immediately if
you think you are pregnant.
Headache, Muscle Aches, other Aches and
Pains - If headaches persist or accompanied
by fever, please notify your transplant center
immediately. Tylenol/Acetaminophen,
Paracetamol, Aspirin are medications that
you may take.
Main side effects:
These include, but are not limited to, headache,
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation,
and gas.
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DO NOT TAKE IBUPROFEN,
MOTRIN-IB, ADVIL, NUPRIN,
MENADOL, MIDOL, GENPRIL,
KETOPROFEN, ORUDIS-KT,
ACTRON, NAPROXEN, ALEVE.
These medications interact with you
immunosuppressants and may harm
your kidneys.
rejection by decreasing the amount of the
anti-rejection drugs in your blood. Other
products that may "enhance your immune
system" may lead to rejection as well.
BLOOD SUGAR MONITORING AND
INSULIN
Monitoring of blood sugar (glucose) after
transplant is done to detect high levels of
sugar in the blood called hyperglycemia. If
you were taking insulin prior to transplant,
you will continue to take insulin after transplant.
If you were taking pills to control your
blood sugar before transplant, you may
need to take insulin after transplant for a
time. Unless you receive a pancreas transplant,
your surgery will not replace the need to
control your blood sugars. Some of the
drugs that you will be taking to prevent
rejection may cause an increase in your
blood sugar. Your blood sugar levels may
return to normal as the dose of your
medications is decreased. If your blood
sugar remains high when you are ready to
go home, you will be taught how to check
your blood sugar, how to give yourself
insulin, and how to change your diet to help
control your blood sugar.
Allergy, Cold Symptoms - Call your
transplant center if symptoms persist or
worsen. Over the counter medications that
you may take include Actifed, Nyquil,
Sudafed, Robitussin, Benedryl, Thera-Flu,
Dristan, Formula 44.
Indigestion/Heartburn - Zantac 75®, Axid
AR®, Pepcid AC® you may take.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Your transplant team may recommend you
take vitamin and/or mineral supplements if
your diet is not providing enough of the
nutrients you need. Check with you
transplant team before taking any nutritional
supplement, including herbal preparations.
CAUTION: HERBAL PRODUCTS OR
TEAS
Since there is little information about drug
interactions between herbals and anti-rejection
drugs, it is not recommended that transplant
patients take herbal products.
NOTES
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
Herbal products are not regulated by any
government agency. This means that they
are not tested for safety, side effects or drug
interactions. St. John's Wort, for example,
is an herbal known to increase the risk of
22
Kidney Handbook
Health Care
After You Leave
The Hospital
WATCHING OUT FOR YOUR
HEALTH AND YOUR NEW KIDNEY
AT HOME
coordinator will teach you how to measure
your blood pressure, if necessary, The top
number (systolic) is noted at the first sound
you hear and the bottom number (diastolic
is noted when the sound changes (not
stops). It is important that you know your
normal blood pressure, normal changes, and
when you should be worried. You should
notify your transplant team or doctor if
your blood pressure is:
Systolic - more than ____ or less than ____
Diastolic - more than ___ or less than ____
After you leave the hospital, you may be
asked to measure your:
• Temperature
• Pulse
• Blood pressure
• Weight
Temperature - Check and record your
temperature any time you feel cold, hot,
achy, or ill. This may be the first sign of
infection. WARNING: DO NOT USE
Tylenol®, Ibuprofen (Advil®, Nurofen®),
aspirin, or other such products unless your
doctor tells you to, as these drugs may
cause further symptoms or interact with
your other medications. If your temperature
is higher than ______ at any time, notify
your transplant team or your doctor
immediately. This is considered an
emergency, because a high temperature
could mean you have a serious infection or
rejection.
Note: If you have chest pain or difficulty
breathing, call for an ambulance and go to
the nearest emergency room. DO NOT try
to drive yourself or have someone drive
you.
Weight - You may be asked to weigh
yourself on a standard bathroom scale at the
same time every morning (after going to the
toilet). Write your weight on the chart in
this handbook. If you gain more than 2
pounds a day, you could be retaining fluid.
Report this to your transplant team or doctor.
Pulse - If you are taking medication that
affects your heart rate, your nurse or coordinator will teach you how to check your
pulse at home. Notify your doctor or
transplant team if your pulse is faster
than ______ or slower than ______.
CLINIC VISITS
When you leave the hospital, you will
receive a schedule of follow-up clinic visits
for lab tests and checkups. The reason for
these visits is to track your progress and
find complications as early as possible.
Blood pressure - Your nurse or transplant
Follow-up visits - On days when you are
23
HEALTH CARE AFTER YOU LEAVE THE
HOSPITAL
Kidney Handbook
scheduled for follow-up visits, bring your
medication list and this handbook with you.
You will be told about routine lab work (to
keep track of your blood count, kidney and
liver function, medication levels, etc) or
special tests that you might need.
necessary for strong bones and teeth,
blood clotting, and heart and nerve
function.
• PO4 measures phosphate, which
works closely with calcium to
strengthen bones.
• Mg measures magnesium, which is
necessary for normal functioning of
muscle and for blood clotting.
• K+ measures potassium, which is
needed for normal heart and muscles
function.
• Na+ measures sodium, which helps
maintain the balance of salt and
water in the body.
• How much medication is staying in your
bloodstream and for how long
• Levels will be measured to check
whether your specific immunosup
pressant is too high or too low in
your body. High levels could lead to
toxicity or over-immunosuppression,
and low levels may lead to rejection.
• How much sugar (glucose) is in your
blood
• How much cholesterol and lipids are in
your blood
LAB TESTS
You will have some lab tests each time you
go for a checkup. These can include blood
and urine tests. Some of the things the tests
look for are:
• Your white blood cell count, which can
indicate whether you have an infection,
side effects from medication, or over
immunosuppression.
• How well your blood can clot (to avoid
too much bleeding if you are injured)
• How well your kidney and liver are working
• Creatinine and Urea tell how well
your kidney works by measuring
levels of creatinine and blood urea
nitrogen, waste products normally
removed from the blood by the kidneys.
• Bili measures the level of bilirubin.
The liver removes bilirubin from the
blood and excretes it in the bile.
When the liver is not functioning
normally, bilirubin levels can
increase, often resulting in jaundiced
(yellowed) skin and eyes.
• Alk Phos measures alkaline
phosphatase, which is made in the
bones, liver, pancreas, and intestines
and removed form the blood by the
liver.
• AST, ALT, and GGTP test liver
enzymes. These tests tell how well
your liver is working.
• Whether you have enough minerals in
your body
• Ca measures calcium, which is
24
HEALTH CARE AFTER YOU LEAVE THE
HOSPITAL
Kidney Handbook
ADDITIONAL TESTS AND
PROCEDURES
Renal scan - This test is done to determine
the amount of blood the kidney is receiving
and to see how well the kidney is working.
An intravenous infusion is needed for this
test.
Your transplant team may perform one or
more of the following tests to keep watch
on your transplant.
NOTES:
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
Ultrasound - This test is performed to make
sure all the main blood vessels leading to
your kidney are functioning normally. This
test is also used to check for amounts of
fluid around the kidney, and to check for
blockage of the kidney. The test consists of
placing a cool gel on your abdomen, over
which a wand is moved to transmit sound
waves. These are converted into images of
your kidney and projected onto a television
screen.
Kidney biopsy (test sample) - This test is
usually performed to diagnose rejection or
other possible problems. This procedure
may be done in the hospital or in the
outpatient/short-stay unit. You will receive
special instructions about this test, and
required after care. Before the test, you will
receive a numbing injection (local anesthetic)
over the transplanted kidney. Then a special
needle will withdraw a small sample of
kidney tissue that will be examined with a
microscope. An ultrasound may be done at
the same time.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - This
is another type of test that produces an
image. Somewhat like a CT scan (another
imaging method), it also allows your kidney
to be viewed from different angles and in
three-dimensional images. A MRI shows
soft tissues, such as the kidney, more clearly
than a CT scan does.
25
Kidney Handbook
Resuming
Normal Activities
AVOIDING INFECTION
Because anti-rejection medications interfere
with your body's defenses, you need to
make sure to protect yourself from infection
after your surgery by taking the following
precautions:
• Wash your hands often
• Keep your hands away from your face
and mouth
• Stay away from people with colds or
other infections.
• Ask friends to visit only when they are
well.
• If you have a wound and must change
your own dressing, wash your hands
before and after.
• Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing,
and throw tissues into the trash immediately.
• If someone in your family becomes ill
with a cold or flu, have that individual
follow normal precautions (using separate
drinking glasses, covering their mouth
when coughing, handwashing frequently,
etc)
• Avoid handling animal waste and avoid
contact with animals that roam outside.
Do not clean bird cages or fish or turtle
tanks or cat litter. The cat litter box should
be covered and taken out of your home
before it is changed. The feces of some
animals contain parasites and the fungus
can grow in a fish tank. All of these
organisms can infect.
• Avoid vaccines that have live viruses
such as Sabin oral polio, measles, mumps,
German measles, yellow fever, or smallpox.
If you or any family member needs to
receive any vaccinations, tell your transplant
team or doctor.
SPECIAL WARNING TO PARENTS OF
CHILDREN WHO HAVE HAD
TRANSPLANTS: Ask the school nurse or
other official to call you immediately if
there are any communicable diseases (for
example, measles or chicken pox) that may
be going around in your school.
FOOD SAFETY
Food can carry bacteria, viruses, fungi and
parasites. What may be safe to eat for the
healthy person can be a risk for an
immunosuppressed person. Specific
guidelines can be followed to prevent
contamination. The following is a list of
suggestions that you should follow to prevent
infections from the foods that you eat.
Again, your hospital stay is a good time to
meet with your transplant nutritionist to
review your individual nutrition guidelines.
Dairy - drink only pasteurized milk, use
only pasteurized milk products
Eggs - Yolks and whites should be cooked
firm, pasteurized egg substitutes may be a
better choice
Meat and Poultry - Avoid raw meats and
poultry, juices from all meats should run
clear
Fruits and Vegetables - Wash fruits and
vegetables using scrub brush and
chlorinated water, even when not eating
the peel
Avoid Cross-contamination - Thoroughly
clean counter tops and dishcloths
Suggestions for Dining Out - Order meat,
seafood, poultry cooked to "medium". If
animal flesh has any pink, send it back for
additional cooking. Make sure shellfish is
well cooked and firm.
26
Kidney Handbook
RESUMING NORMAL ACTIVITIES
DIET AND NUTRITION
Healthy eating is an important part of your
recovery. A nutritionist can help you develop
an eating plan that provides a balanced diet
to meet your needs. The number of calories
you need will be based on whether you
need to gain, maintain, or lose weight and
on your level of activity.
restricted to help limit the amount of fluid
your body holds and to control blood
pressure and blood sugar. Consult your
nutritionist about using salt, sugar, and fat
in your diet.
During the first weeks after your transplant,
your body will require extra calories and
protein. Meeting your increased nutritional
needs will help your body to heal, fight
infection, and gain back any weight you
may have lost. Even if your appetite is not
good after surgery, it is still important to
eat. Think of food as another medicine to
help you get well. The following are some
tips to help you increase calories and protein
in your diet.
• Try eating 5-6 small meals a day
• Ask your nutritionist about adding high
calorie, high protein supplements
and/or snacks with or between your
meals. Good snack choices include:
- Instant Breakfast
- Low fat yogurt
- Low fat cheese and crackers
- Low fat peanut butter and crackers
• Choose high calore drinks such as juice or
milk rather than water
• 5 fruits and vegetables per day
• Whole-grain cereals and breads
• Low-fat or non-fat milk and dairy
products or other sources of calcium
• Lean meats, fish, and poultry or other
sources of protein; avoid/limit fried foods
• Egg whites or egg substitute
• Sugar free beverages and limit concentrated
sweets
• Limit processed, "convenience" or canned
foods; good salt free seasonings to choose
include garlic & onion powder, pepper,
vinegar and herb mixtures
Your diet should include a variety of foods,
such as:
Healthy food - Use of salt, sugar, and fat A low-fat, low-sugar diet will help control
your weight and blood sugar. Eating right
will help keep you at a healthy weight and
in the best shape. Certain medications you
take may cause your blood pressure, blood
sugar, cholesterol and weight to increase.
To help regulate these things, it is important
for you to limit your daily intake of saturated
fat, salt and sugar. Your use of salt may be
27
Kidney Handbook
RESUMING NORMAL ACTIVITIES
Electrolytes - Levels of potassium, phosphorus and magnesium - Your medications may
also affect the levels of potassium, phosphorus,
and magnesium in your body. You may
need to restrict or supplement your intake
of these things to keep them in a desirable
range. The following are examples of foods
high in each category.
Potassium
Cantaloupe
Oranges/
Orange juice
Broccoli
Potatoes
Tomatoes
Phosphorous
Milk
Cheese
Yogurt
Whole grains
Raisins
You need a daily exercise routine to avoid
the muscle and total-body weakness that
often happens after a long illness or time in
bed. You should build or increase your levels
of exercise. In this way, you will get all the
benefits of exercise without causing strain
or serious injury to your body. Before starting
any exercise program, remember to check
with your transplant team. They will advise
you about an exercise routine that will best
meet your needs.
Magnesium
Shrimp
Peanuts
Beets
Spinach
Tofu
WARNING: If you have any of the
following symptoms, stop your exercise
until you talk to your doctor.
• Pain or pressure in your chest, neck, or
jaw
• A lot of fatigue that is not related to lack
of sleep
• Unusual shortness of breath
• Dizziness or light-headedness during or
after exercise
• Continuing rapid or irregular heart rate,
new since your transplant, during or after
exercise
CARING FOR YOUR BONES
Research has shown that transplant patients
are at increased risk of bone fractures. The
feet and ankles seem to be particularly
vulnerable, but other bones can break too.
To lower your fracture risk, make sure you
are getting enough calcium and vitamin D
in your diet (unless your doctor says not to).
Here are a few good dietary sources of calcium:
• Yogurt
• Ricotta cheese, part skim
• Skim or low-fat milk
• Provolone cheese
• Mozzarella cheese, part skim
• Sardines with bones, canned
• Salmon with bones, canned
• Calcium-fortified orange juice
EXERCISE
After transplant surgery, exercise is very
important to your mental health and physical well being. Physical activity also helps
decrease the effects of prednisone, which
causes muscle weakness.
28
Kidney Handbook
RESUMING NORMAL ACTIVITIES
RETURNING TO WORK OR SCHOOL
Returning to work or school must be
discussed with your transplant team; they
will help you to determine your readiness.
The time frame will depend upon many factors
including your recovery and the type of
work you perform.
from the ultraviolet rays of the sun that
cause skin cancer.
• Avoid midday (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) sun,
when ultraviolet rays are strongest.
• Wear a hat, long sleeves, and slacks when
outdoors unless you are using a sunscreen.
• Use a sunscreen lotion with skin protective
factors (SPF) rated at least 15.
• Use a sunscreen lotion and lip balm every
day (rain or shine) and put them on any
areas that are not covered, especially your
face, neck and hands.
SEXUAL ACTIVITY
You may resume sexual activity as soon as
you feel well enough. How quickly you feel
ready will depend a lot on your recovery
progress. You should discuss this during
your clinic visits. Your sexual functioning
may be affected by your transplantation.
Certain medications can also interfere with
sexual functioning. Some people avoid sexual
activity because they are afraid of kidney
rejection, of hurting the kidney, or of
infection. If you have any of these fears,
you may want to check with your transplant
team. If you are sexually active and do not
have a steady sexual partner, you must use
condoms to reduce the risk of sexually
transmitted diseases such as AIDS, syphilis,
herpes, hepatitis, or gonorrhea. You must
use contraception to prevent unplanned
pregnancy also.
NOTE: Remember that sunscreen lotions
wash off. Put the lotion on again as needed,
especially after swimming.
Dry skin care - If you have problems with
dry skin, use a mild soap and put on body
lotion after bathing.
Cuts and scratches - Recommend electric
razor to avoid cuts while shaving. Wash
minor cuts and scratches daily with soap
and water. For large cuts, see your doctor
right away.
SKIN AND HAIR CARE
You will not need any special skin care
unless you develop acne or dry skin.
Generally, you should shower or bathe as
often as necessary to keep your skin clean.
Call your transplant team if you discover
any unusual skin growths, rash, or
discoloration.
Hair care - Prednisone will probably
change the condition of your hair.
Permanent hair dyes, tints, wave lotions,
and bleach may cause your hair to become
brittle and to break. It is recommended that
you wait until the prednisone dosage is
lower than 10 mg a day before having a
permanent or coloring your hair. Tell your
hairdresser that you are taking prednisone
and use a good conditioner on your hair.
Sun exposure - Transplant patients have
more chance of developing skin and lip
cancers. Since the risk gets bigger with
time, you must always protect your skin
Unwanted hair growth - If you get more
facial hair, use a hair-removal cream
(depilatory). Be sure to follow directions
carefully to avoid eye or lip irritation.
29
Kidney Handbook
RESUMING NORMAL ACTIVITIES
Another way is to bleach extra hair growth
with 50% peroxide solution. You might
consider waxing or electrolysis to remove
extra hair. Even if there is a lot hair growth,
do not alter your medication. Call your
transplant team about ways to deal with this
problem.
discuss birth control and any other questions
related to pregnancy with your transplant
team. Men with kidney transplants have
been able to father children. Because of the
medications that you take, it is important to
discuss the possible risks to the baby with
your transplant team.
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
Drinking beer, wine, and liquor may damage
your liver. Medications such as tacrolimus,
cyclosporine, azathioprine, mycophenolate
and TMP/SMX are broken down by the
liver and, if combined with alcohol, could
harm your liver. Call your transplant team
for advice.
VACATIONS AND TRAVEL
If you are planning a trip to a foreign country
that requires vaccinations for smallpox,
measles, German measles, or certain other
diseases, ask your transplant team to decide
what you cannot have and to send a letter to
your local passport bureau indicating that
you cannot receive these vaccines. Because
you cannot receive these vaccines, travel to
these countries may not be safe for you.
As you travel to places that have time
differences you will need to take this into
account when you take your medications.
You may find that you will be taking your
medications at times that you don't normally
take your medications at home. It is
important to adjust to the new time change
but remember to space your medication
times as you had at home. For example, if
you take your immunosuppressants every
12 hours at home, you will need to take
your immunosuppressants in a new time
zone every 12 hours.
SMOKING
It has determined that smoking can be
harmful to your health. (The Surgeon
General of the United States / Chief
Medical Officer of the United Kingdom) If
you are a smoker, you may with to join a
stop-smoking group in your area. Look in
the yellow pages of your telephone book.
In the United States call the American Heart
Association, American Lung Association, or
American Cancer Society to find a local
group. In the United Kingdom - Action on
Smoking and Health (ASH)
PREGNANCY
A number of women who have had kidney
transplants have had successful pregnancies,
although pregnancy may have special risk
for both the transplant patient and the baby.
Women should avoid pregnancy for at least
1 year after transplant surgery. You should
30
Kidney Handbook
Communication
With Your
Healthcare Team
Having a transplanted kidney and taking the
medication needed to prevent rejection put
you at risk for a number of problems. It is
important for you to follow the instructions
that will help prevent or lessen these problems.
One of your most important jobs is to make
sure that all members of your healthcare
team - your family doctor, dentist, local
pharmacist, and any other healthcare
professionals you see - are aware of your
transplant, the medications you take each
day, and the precautions you must follow to
stay healthy. Give each of your local
healthcare providers the telephone number
of your transplant team; ask them to call for
specific information.
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea for a long time
• An inability to take prescribed medication
• Bleeding, bruising, black stools, or red or
rusty-brown urine
• A rash or other skin change
• Vaginal discharge or itching
• Burning discomfort when you urinate
• Exposure to mumps, measles, chicken
pox, or shingles
• Unusual weakness or light-headedness
• Emergency-room treatment or hospitalization
DENTAL CARE
Precautions for dental care - If you have
dental pain, call your dentist immediately.
Before you have dental work done (including
cleaning and polishing), check with your
transplant team to see if you need to take
antibiotics.
SIGNS TO WATCH FOR
While the main things for you to avoid are
infection and rejection, many other problems,
such as colds or flu, changes in other
medication, and minor infections, can be
handled by your doctor. You need to take
precautions yourself, however, and learn to
watch for signs of infection and rejection so
you can call your doctor or transplant team
right away.
These include:
• Decreased urine output
• A fever that continues for more than 2 days
• Fluid retention - a bloated feeling
• Pain over the kidney transplant
• A cough that produces a yellowish or
greenish substance
• A dry cough that continues for more that
1 week
Cyclosporine has been known to cause gum
hyperplasia (overgrowth) in some patients.
Make sure your dentist knows you are a
transplant recipient and which medications
you are taking.
ROUTINE HEALTHCARE
Immunization with non-live vaccines, call
your transplant team for advice. Medical
and dental checkups are necessary for your
continued well being.
NOTES
___________________________________
___________________________________
___________________________________
31
Kidney Handbook
Glossary
ANTIFUNGAL
Medications that are used in the treatment
of fungal infections.
A
ACUTE TUBULAR NECROSIS (ATN)
Reversible tissue damage of the kidney that
results in delayed graft function. Prolonged
long organ storage or certain anti-rejection
medications can cause ATN. It might be
referred to as a sleepy kidney.
ANTIGEN
A foreign substance, such as a transplant,
that triggers an immune system response.
This response may be the production of
antibodies, which try to inactivate or
destroy the antigen (the transplanted organ).
ANESTHETIC
A medication that reduces pain by dulling
sensation or can cause the patient to be in a
sleep.
ARTERIOGRAM/
ANGIOGRAM
A x-ray of the arteries taken following the
injection of dye. An arteriogram allows the
team to see (visualization of) the blood
vessels to the kidneys.
ANTACID
A medication that works to relieve heartburn
and digestive discomfort.
B
ALLOGRAFT
An organ or tissue transplanted from one
person to another person of the same
species. Commonly referred to as a graft.
BACTERIA
A small organism that can cause infection.
BLADDER
A saclike structure that receives urine from
the kidneys and stores it until urination
occurs
AMYLASE
A digestive enzyme that is produced by the
pancreas.
ANTIBIOTIC
A medication that is used in the treatment
of bacterial infections.
BLOOD UREA NITROGEN (BUN)
The waste product of protein metabolism
that is excreted by the kidneys.
ANTIBODY
A protein substance made by the body's
immune system in response to a foreign
substance, for example a previous transplant,
blood transfusion, virus or pregnancy.
Because the antibodies attack the transplanted
organ, transplant patients must take powerful
anti - rejection medications.
C
CATHETER
A small soft rubber tube that is placed into
the bladder through the urethra allowing
urine to drain freely from the bladder.
32
Kidney Handbook
GLOSSARY
CHOLESTEROL
A form of fat that performs necessary
functions in the body but can also cause
heart disease.
of glucose accumulating in the blood
stream. This occurs because your body is
not using glucose properly or not enough
Insulin is being produced.
CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE
Permanent irreversible damage to the kidneys
that is treated with dialysis or transplantation.
Also known as End -Stage Renal Disease or
ESRD.
DIASTOLIC
The bottom of the two blood pressure
numbers that measures the force of the heart
muscle at rest.
E
COMPLIANCE
The act of following medical instructions
and treatment regimen plans.
EDEMA
The presence of abnormally large amounts
of fluids in the tissues of the body.
Commonly seen in the feet and legs.
CREATININE
A waste product of muscle cell metabolism,
which serves as an indicator of kidney function.
ELECTROCARDIOGRAM (ECG)
A recording of the electrical activity of the
heart.
CROSSMATCH
A blood test between a donor and a recipient
that indicates compatibility. A negative
crossmatch means there is no reaction
between a donor and recipient's blood;
therefore a transplant can occur. A positive
crossmatch means that the recipient's
immune system has reacted to the donors
blood calls and this means the transplant
cannot occur.
H
HEMATOCRIT (HCT)
A measurement of the red blood cell
content in the blood.
HERPES
A group of viruses that can infect people.
Herpes simplex can cause lip and genital
sores. Herpes zoster can cause shingles.
These viruses can be serious in
immunosuppressed people.
CMV
(CYTOMEGALOVIRUS)
A virus that is found in a large percentage
of the population that generally causes no
harm. This virus, however, can cause serious
illness in a patient that is immunosuppressed.
HUMAN LEUKOCYTE ANTIGEN
(HLA)
Molecules that are found on most cells of
the body that characterize each individual
as unique. These antigens are inherited from
your parents. HLA determines the
compatibility of tissues for transplantation
from one individual to another.
D
DIABETES
An individual's inability to process
carbohydrates, proteins, and fats as a result
33
Kidney Handbook
GLOSSARY
POTASSIUM
A mineral found in the body that is
necessary for body function and helps to
regulate cardiac function. Disturbances in
potassium levels may cause serious cardiac
problems.
I
IMMUNE SYSTEM
The body's defense against foreign objects
or organisms such as bacteria, viruses,
tissues, or transplanted organs.
R
IMMUNOSUPPRESSION
Artificial suppression of the immune system
with medication. This is done to suppress
the immune system so that a body will not
reject a transplanted organ or tissue.
RECTALLY
Refers to medication or treatment
administered through your rectum
(Kaexylate enema is an example)
INTRAVENOUS (IV)
Refers to fluids or medications that are
given through a vein.
REJECTION
An attempt by the immune system to reject
or destroy what the body recognizes as foreign.
O
S
ORALLY
Refers to fluids or medications that are
taken by mouth.
SHINGLES
A virus caused by herpes zoster that usually
affects a nerve or group of nerves. This
condition can be very painful and take some
time to improve.
P
PANCREATITIS
A potential complication following a pancreatic transplant resulting in the inflammation of the pancreas.
SODIUM
A necessary electrolyte in your blood.
Sodium is absorbed by the kidneys and
affects body water distribution.
PANEL REACTIVE ANTIBODY ( PRA )
The percentage of cells from a panel of
donors with which a potential recipient's
blood reacts. The more antibodies in the
recipient's blood, the higher the PRA. The
higher the PRA, the less chance there is of
obtaining a negative crossmatch.
STENT
A slender rod or thread like devise that is
used to provide support to the transplanted
ureter. The stent helps to maintain flow of
urine through the ureter and to the bladder.
SYSTOLIC
The top number of the blood pressure reading
which measures the force of the heart muscle
during contraction.
PLATELET
A small blood cell that is necessary for
normal clotting of the blood.
34
Kidney Handbook
GLOSSARY
T
W
THRUSH
A fungal infection of the mouth.
WHITE BLOOD CELLS
This is the measurement of leukocytes in
the blood stream.
U
(WBC's )
Leukocytes are very important as they help
us fight infection. A low or high WBC
count can be a sign of infection or disease.
URETER
The tube that transports urine to the bladder
from the kidneys.
URETHRA
The tube from the bladder in which urine
flows from the body.
V
VIRUS
A small germ that causes infection.
35
Kidney Handbook
Sources
For More Information
American Heart Association (AHA)
National Center 7272 Greenville Avenue
Dallas, TX 75231-4596
1-800-242-8721
www.americanheart.org
(Local and national AHA and the AHA
Cookbook are good sources of nutritional advice)
Blood Pressure Association
www.bpassoc.org.uk
Official gateway to NHS organizations on
the Internet
www.nhs.uk
Health information for patients and
Health care professionals
www.healthsites.co.uk
National Kidney Foundation
30 East 33rd Street, Suite 1100
New York, NY 10016
Phone: 1-800-622-9010
Local: 212-889-2210
Fax: 212-689-9261
Email: info@kidney.org
British Diabetic Association
www.diabetes.org.uk
Diabetes Federation of Ireland
www.diabetesireland.ie
International Transplant Nurses Society
1739 E. Carson Street
Box 351
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
(412) 343-ITNS (4867)
(412) 343-3959 (fax)
Web page: http://www.itns.org
Email: itns@msn.com
National kidney research fund
www.nkrf.org.uk
Action on smoking and health
www.ash.org.uk
Australian kidney association
www.kidney.org.au
Transplant Recipient International
Organization (TRIO)
2117 L Street NW, #353
Washington, DC 20037
Phone: 1-800-TRIO-386
Fax: 703-820-3948
Email: triointl@aol.com
Irish Kidney Association
www.ika.ie
Irish Health information
www.irishhealth.com
United Network for Organ Sharing
(UNOS)
1100 Boulders Parkway, Suite 500
P.O. Box 13770
Richmond, VA 23225-8770
1-888-TXINFO1
Web page: http://www.unos.org
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Elizabeth Good, RN BC, MSN
Jane Hartman, RN
Wanda Ryan, RN, C, CCTC
Grainne M. Walsh, BSc, DipHe, RN, RSCN
American Nephrology Nurses Association
East Holly Avenue, Box 56
Pitman, NJ 08071-0056
Phone: 888-600-ANNA
Fax: 856-589-7463
Email: anna@ajj.com
Web: www.anna.inurse.com
Fujisawa Healthcare, Inc.
www.fujisawausa.com
ITNS wishes to acknowledge Fujisawa
Healthcare, Inc. for providing an educational grant to make this handbook possible.
36
Kidney Handbook
Useful
Forms
You may want to make extra copies of some of these forms before you fill them in.
PHONE DIRECTORY OF YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM
Transplant team office phone number: _______________________________________
Name
Phone Number
Primary Nurse: ____________________________ ______________________
Clinical Nurse Specialist ____________________________ ______________________
Transplant Coordinator ____________________________ ______________________
Nurse-Practitioner ____________________________ ______________________
Transplant Doctor ____________________________ ______________________
Transplant Surgeon ____________________________ ______________________
Social Worker ____________________________ ______________________
Nutritionist ____________________________ ______________________
Hospital Pharmacist ____________________________ ______________________
Physical Therapist ____________________________ ______________________
Psychiatrist or Psychologist ____________________________ ______________________
Other (______________) ____________________________ ______________________
Other (______________) ____________________________ ______________________
OTHER MEMBERS OF YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM
Family Doctor ____________________________ ______________________
Dentist ____________________________ ______________________
Local Pharmacist ____________________________ ______________________
Laboratory ____________________________ ______________________
Other (______________) ____________________________ ______________________
Other (______________) ____________________________ ______________________
37
Directions
Morning
Number of Tablets/Capsules
Midmorning
Afternoon
Evening
Bedtime
38
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
NOTES ON ADDITIONAL MEDICATIONS__________________________________________________________________________
Strength
________________________________________________
Pharmacy phone number
______________________________________________________
Allergies
Drug
________________________________________________
Pharmacy
Kidney Handbook
______________________________________________________
Patient's name
MEDICATION INSTRUCTION SHEET
Instructions on
what to bring/do
before appointment
Location
Type of
appointment:
lab or clinic
Time
Date
______________________________________________________
Patient's name
FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENT SCHEDULE
39
Kidney Handbook
Weight
Pulse
Blood Pressure
Temperature
Time
AM/PM
Date
Normal Values
______________________________________________________
Patient's name
VITAL SIGNS RECORD
40
Kidney Handbook
Other (________________)
Cyclosporine
Tacrolimus
Cholesterol
GLU (Glucose)
K (Potassium)
Na (Sodium)
Mg (Magnesium)
PO4 (Phosphorus)
Ca (Calcium)
CREAT (Creatinine)
BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen)
PT (Prothrombin Time)
PLT (Platelet)
HCT (Hematocrit)
WBC (White Blood Cell)
Date
______________________________________________________
Patient's name
Normal Values
RECORD OF LAB VALUES
41
Kidney Handbook
42
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
YOUR NOTES AND COMMENTS
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
QUESTIONS FOR YOUR TRANSPLANT TEAM
Kidney Handbook
Kidney Handbook
Simultaneous
Pancreas-Kidney
Transplant (SPK)
TABLE
OF
CONTENTS
INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR SIMULTANEOUS
PANCREAS-KIDNEY TRANSPLANT (SPK)........................................................................44
What the Pancreas Does ..............................................................................................................44
What Your SPK Transplant Will Do ............................................................................................44
The Location of Your New Kidney and Pancreas ......................................................................45
Drainage of Your New Pancreas ..................................................................................................45
Watching Your Urine Amylase Level ..........................................................................................45
Watching Your Glucose Level ....................................................................................................46
Other Tests....................................................................................................................................46
Anti-rejection medication After SPK Transplantation ................................................................46
Infection After SPK Transplantation............................................................................................47
Rejection After SPK Transplantation ..........................................................................................47
Diet and Nutrition ........................................................................................................................48
Foot Care......................................................................................................................................48
Sources of More Information ......................................................................................................49
Notes ............................................................................................................................................50
43
Kidney Handbook
Most of the food we eat is broken down by
the digestive juices into glucose, a simple
sugar. Glucose is the body's main source of
fuel. After digestion, glucose passes into the
blood stream, where it can be used as fuel
for growth and energy. It cannot do this
without insulin.
Congratulations!
You have a new kidney and
a new pancreas.
This section of the book is
just for you.
When you eat, your pancreas is supposed to
automatically send out the right amount of
insulin to move glucose from your blood
into your cells. In people with diabetes,
however, the pancreas does not do this job
right. As a result, glucose cannot get into
the cells that need it to run, so it builds up
in the blood, overflows into the urine, and
passes out of the body, leaving the cells
starving for fuel.
Many aspects of your care after a
simultaneous pancreas-kidney (SPK)
transplant are the same as they would be if
you had had just a kidney transplant, but a
few things are a little different. This section
will cover just the things that are different
after SPK transplantation. As a person with
a new kidney and a new pancreas, you should
read this section in addition to the rest of
this book to learn everything you will need
to know as you get ready to start this new
part of your life. You may have had your
pancreas transplant sometime after your
kidney transplant. This section is still for you!
To make sure their cells get the energy they
need, people with diabetes have to inject
insulin that the pancreas does not make, and
they must also control their diets, change
their activities according to their doctors'
advice, and test their blood sugar often.
WHAT THE PANCREAS DOES
The pancreas, which lies below the stomach
and above the intestines, performs many
functions, (see Figure 1). In addition to
producing digestive juices, it also produces
insulin, which your body must have to be
able to use sugar.
WHAT YOUR SPK TRANSPLANT
WILL DO
Your SPK transplant corrects two problems
at the same time. Your native kidneys that
were damaged by years of diabetes have
been replaced by a new kidney that will
filter the toxins out of your body; and your
native pancreas has been replaced by a new
pancreas that will produce insulin
automatically, as your body needs it. SPK
transplantation frees you from the two
burdens of dialysis and daily insulin shots.
That is why many patients' report that the
quality of their lives is much improved after
their SPK surgery.
Pancreas
Small Intestine
Figure 1. The pancreas
44
Kidney Handbook
THE LOCATION OF YOUR NEW
KIDNEY AND PANCREAS
diluted safely by urine and removed from
the body.
The new kidney and pancreas are usually
placed next to each other in your body. The
old pancreas is usually left in place, and the
new pancreas is put a little to the right. The
new kidney is placed to the left (See Figure 2).
The digestive proteins draining into your
urine may cause it to look a little unusual. It
may look cloudy or contain little particles.
It is important to watch for and tell your
doctor about any change in the way your
urine looks. Some things to look out for and
report include:
• A change in the color of your urine
• A change in the smell of your urine
• Any sign of blood in your urine
• Any feeling of pressure or pain when you
urinate
• Inability to urinate
The transplant
surgeon uses a
single midline
incision to place
the new organs
in the pelvic area.
NOTE: It is an emergency if you have a
bladder-drained pancreas and cannot urinate.
If this happens, contact your transplant team
or doctor right away. He or she will be able
to put a catheter into your bladder to drain
your urine.
transplanted
kidney
transplanted
pancreas
bladder
tissue connecting
pancreas to bladder
for draining
pancreatic juices
Figure 2. Location of your new kidney and pancreas.
Your surgeon may decide to have your
pancreas drain into your intestine. If so,
your transplant team will give you more
information about this.
DRAINAGE OF YOUR NEW
PANCREAS
WATCHING YOUR URINE AMYLASE
LEVEL
Besides making insulin, the pancreas makes
proteins that help you digest. A new
pancreas can be connected so that these
proteins drain into either your intestines or
your bladder.
One unique aspect of having a SPK
transplant is the opportunity to use urine
tests to keep track of your new pancreas'
functioning. Having a bladder-drained
pancreas gives you an early-warning system
for pancreas rejection.
These days, most SPK transplants are done
so that the new pancreas drains into the
bladder. With this technique, there is less
risk of infection caused by bacteria in the
intestines, and the digestive proteins can be
By measuring the levels of the digestive
protein amylase in your urine, your doctor
can check on how well your pancreas is
working. After your pancreas transplant,
45
Kidney Handbook
your urine will have higher-than-normal
levels of amylase. If these decrease, it may
be an early sign of rejection and when
rejection is caught early, it is easier to treat.
Therefore, you will probably be asked to
collect urine samples for amylase measurements
every time you go to the lab for tests. Your
lab will tell you how to collect this urine
sample at home.
ANTI-REJECTION MEDICATION
AFTER SPK TRANSPLANTATION
WATCHING YOUR GLUCOSE LEVEL
Taking your anti-rejection medications is as
important after a SPK transplant as after a
kidney-only transplant. The rules are the
same; Your body sees your new kidney and
pancreas as foreign objects and will try to
reject them. To stop this rejection, you must
take your anti-rejection medications every
day, as prescribed, for the rest of your life.
Just as your new kidney should begin to
make urine right away, your new pancreas
will probably begin making insulin right
away as well, and you will most likely have
normal levels of blood sugar soon after
your surgery. However, you may need to
take insulin for a short time after your transplant.
It is common for transplant recipients to
forget to take their medication or to skip a
few doses after awhile. Don't do it. As long
as you have your new kidney and pancreas,
you will need to take the medication that
come with them; not taking them will cause
rejection.
To make sure your pancreas is working as it
should, you will probably continue to monitor
your blood sugar, though not as often as
you used to. Your doctor may give you a
glucose-monitoring program to follow.
It may seem hard to have to remember to
take medications every day, but you are
already used to it. You have already had
dialysis and/or daily insulin, and most SPK
recipients say that it is much easier to take
their anti-rejection medications, side effects
and all, than it was to take care of their diabetes.
If any of your blood-sugar readings are
higher than ________, you should call your
transplant team.
The anti-rejection medications taken after a
SPK transplant are the same as those taken
after a kidney-only transplant. For more
information about each of these
medications, see the Information About
Medications section of the handbook.
OTHER TESTS
Most of the other tests you will need will be
pretty much the same as if you had had a
kidney-only transplant. About once a year,
you may be asked to return to your
transplant center for an evaluation.
People who have had SPK transplants
sometimes take slightly higher doses of
some of these medications for a while
because of the higher risk of early but
reversible rejection. These higher doses
may cause the risk of developing an
infection to be slightly higher.
46
Kidney Handbook
INFECTION AFTER SPK
TRANSPLANTATION
transplant. The advantage you have is that
you have an extra way of checking for signs
of rejection that kidney-only recipients do
not have. As we said earlier, a lower
amount of amylase in your urine can be an
early-warning sign of rejection of your pancreas.
Infection is always a risk for people who
are taking anti-rejection medication. If you
are taking higher does of these medications
to avoid rejection, you will just need to be a
little extra careful about avoiding infection.
Here are other signs of rejection you should
be watching for:
• Fever
• Fatigue/weakness
• Less urine output
• Tenderness near your new kidney or pancreas
• Swelling of your hands and/or feet
The infections that you need to watch out
for are the same as the ones a kidney-only
recipient has to watch for. You can read
about these infections in the Complications
section of the handbook. You should also
read the advice about avoiding infections in
the section titled Resuming Normal
Activities.
SPK recipients can have rejection in the
kidney or pancreas separately or in both at
the same time. In general, however, rejection
of the kidney usually comes before rejection
of the pancreas, so the kidney is watched
for signs of rejection. Treatment for rejection
of either one usually prevents or treats
rejection of the other as well.
As a reminder, here are the signs and
symptoms of infection that you should
watch for and report to your transplant
team:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Cold
Flu-like symptoms
Sore throat
Skin rashes or sores
Sores in or around the mouth
Fever
Unusual vaginal discharge
As a SPK recipient, you may have a higher
risk of early, reversible, rejection than a
kidney-only recipient would have, and most
people do have a few episodes of rejection.
Generally, though, this stops happening
after a while. Most SPK recipients are
feeling much better within 3 months, and if
you take your medications faithfully, there
should be very few complications after the
first year.
Although fever is a main sign of infection,
you may not always run a fever when you
have an infection. Therefore, if you have no
fever but you have other signs of infection,
call your transplant team or doctor right away.
SPK transplantation is an operation that
makes life better rather than saving your
life.
REJECTION AFTER SPK
TRANSPLANTATION
Therefore, if either your pancreas or your
kidney fail, you can return to your previous
diabetes and kidney-failure treatments, and
you may be able to have another transplant.
Rejection is always possible after a SPK
transplant, just as it is after a kidney-only
47
Kidney Handbook
DIET AND NUTRITION
Eating right is as important to your health
as it is after a kidney-only transplant, so be
sure to read the information about diet and
nutrition in the Resuming Normal Activities
section of the handbook
•
•
One important difference is that, with a new
pancreas, you will probably be able to be a
little more relaxed about your diet and try
some treats once in a while. Mainly, though,
you will want to follow a low-fat, low-sugar
diet. Healthful eating is important for preventing many diseases, not just for
controlling diabetes, so follow your
transplant team's instructions carefully.
•
•
Another difference for you, if your new
pancreas drains into your bladder, is that
you will experience a loss of bicarbonate.
As a result, you may become dehydrated.
To avoid this, make sure you drink 3 to 4
quarts (litres) of liquid every day. You may
have to take bicarbonate supplements.
If you become dehydrated at home, you
may have to go back into the hospital.
FOOT CARE
Even though your diabetes is "cured" by
your new pancreas, studies show that you
will still have some risk for foot
complications that usually go with diabetes,
including infection. Therefore, after your
surgery, you will need to take these steps to
care for your feet:
• Wash your feet every day and dry them
thoroughly, especially between the toes.
Examine your feet carefully every day for
48
cuts, scratches, blisters, ingrown toenails,
puncture wounds, or warts. Call your
doctor if you have any of these problems.
Call your doctor if you notice any signs of
infection, burning, tingling, or numbness
in your feet.
Do no try to remove or treat corns or cal
luses yourself. Have a doctor remove
them.
Wear comfortable, well-cushioned shoes.
Do not wear high heels, and do not walk
barefoot.
Wear cotton socks, which absorb
moisture. Change them every day.
Kidney Handbook
Sources Of More
Information
For more information on SPK transplantation,
you may want to contact the following
organizations:
American Diabetes Association
Attn: Customer Service
1701 N. Beauregard Street
Alexandria, VA 22311
Phone 1-800-DIABETES
Web: www.diabetes.org
British Diabetic Association
www.diabetes.org.uk
Federation of Ireland
www.diabetesireland.ie
International Pancreas Transplant
Registry
www.iptr.umn.edu
International Transplant Nurses Society
www.itns.org
National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive
& Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
www.niddk.nih.gov
49
Kidney Handbook
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